2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 vs 2024 Toyota Tundra

The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offered a variety of configurations, with nine trims to choose from. Buyers could select from a two-door regular cab with either a standard or long bed, a double cab with a standard bed, or the popular crew cab with options for a standard or short bed. The off-road-focused ZR2 model was available exclusively in the crew cab, short bed configuration. The Silverado's exterior, refreshed in 2022, maintained its appeal with squinty headlamps and a large grille that varied in style depending on the trim. Inside, the Silverado boasted a modern cabin with improved materials, leather options, and open-pore wood trim in higher trims. The interior featured a mix of screens and physical controls for essential functions.

The 2024 Toyota Tundra, with its massive grille designed for powertrain cooling, had a bold appearance that divided opinions. Despite some criticism, the Tundra's industrial design theme conveyed durability, though the cabin's plastic elements detracted from its overall quality. The Tundra was available in Double Cab and CrewMax styles with various bed lengths. Trim levels ranged from the base SR to the luxurious Capstone. Each Tundra came with a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine, with the i-Force Max powertrain adding a hybrid version. The TRD Pro model, tested here, featured unique styling elements and a high MSRP of $74,295, including destination charges.

The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offered four engine choices, including a standard turbocharged four-cylinder with 310 horsepower and two V8 options, the larger of which produced 420 horsepower. The ZR2 model tested featured a 3.0-liter six-cylinder Duramax turbodiesel engine, delivering 305 horsepower and 495 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided strong performance, aided by a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission. The ZR2 was equipped for off-road adventures with a two-inch lift, differential lockers, and Multimatic shocks, offering a versatile ride. The optional ZR2 Bison package added further off-road enhancements for an additional cost.

The 2024 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro excelled both on and off-road, thanks to its lighter BBS forged alloy wheels, all-terrain tires, and FOX shock absorbers. The standard twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine produced 358 horsepower, while the TRD Pro's hybrid version delivered 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque. The TRD Pro offered a towing capacity of 11,175 pounds and a payload of 1,600 pounds. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and a part-time 4WD system with various off-road technologies. Despite some visibility issues, the Tundra TRD Pro performed well in desert environments, though fuel efficiency was lower than expected.

The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 catered to a range of preferences, from basic to luxurious. The WT trim featured vinyl seats and a small infotainment screen, while the High Country offered power seats, a Bose stereo, and heated seating. The ZR2 trim, similar to the High Country, lacked some luxury features but provided ample rear legroom in the crew cab configuration. The Silverado's towing capacity reached 13,300 pounds with the diesel engine, though the ZR2's unique suspension limited it to 9,000 pounds. The truck's payload capacity varied, with the ZR2 model accommodating around 1,800 pounds.

The 2024 Toyota Tundra's interior was spacious, but the i-Force Max's battery compromised rear storage space. The Tundra lacked some of the cargo bed features found in competitors, such as adjustable tie-downs and innovative tailgate options. Despite these limitations, the Tundra offered decent storage and comfortable seating. However, the TRD Pro's seats caused discomfort on long drives. The truck's entry and exit were challenging for shorter individuals, but its heated and ventilated front seats were appreciated.

The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 featured a user-friendly infotainment system, with lower trims offering a seven-inch touchscreen and higher trims boasting a 13.4-inch display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and the system included Google integration for voice commands. The Silverado excelled in trailering technology, offering up to 14 camera views and a rear camera mirror. A head-up display was also available, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2024 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro came with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Toyota provided complimentary trial subscriptions to connected services, including Safety Connect and Drive Connect. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and the TRD Pro featured a JBL audio system. Additional tech included wireless charging, a surround-view camera, and trailering assistance.

The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 included Chevy Safety Assist as standard, featuring automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Optional safety features included a 360-degree camera and adaptive cruise control. The NHTSA awarded the Silverado a five-star overall safety rating, though the IIHS rated it poorly in some crash tests.

The 2024 Toyota Tundra came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, offering adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. However, the lane-centering assist was less reliable. The NHTSA gave the Tundra high safety ratings, while the IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick, despite a poor rating in a new frontal-impact test.